The Bucket Brigade program started last year with funding from a Senior SAFE grant through the MA Department of Fire Services. This grant provides funding for programs that aid in the prevention of falls and providing fire safety education for the senior population. We hope to continue expanding it each year moving forward. Our goal is to ensure Seniors are able to walk safely in and out of their homes when slips and falls are at their highest risk.
NAFD will be delivering a 5-gallon bucket of sand and salt mix to participants’ home on December 3rd. It is not required for anyone to be at home to receive delivery. We will also leave information on how to have the bucket refilled if needed. At the end of March/ beginning of April, they will be notified of an expected date for the bucket to be picked up again. Buckets will be provided with lid and scoop. We recommend that participants keep this bucket near walkways, with the lid on to prevent freezing.
We urge our seniors to remember to use safe practices when applying sand to driveways or walkways by wearing appropriate footwear, ensuring snow has been removed from the area prior to spreading sand, to use a scoop to spread sand evenly over the walkway or driveway, and to be sure to remove any ice chunks that may accumulate. Above all else, we ask them to ask for help if they feel they are not able to walk safely.
If you have any questions, please email publiced@nattleboro.com or call the fire department at 508-699-0140.